Ceylon cinnamon powder is a common spice found in most households. It offers many health benefits that include increased metabolism, controlled blood glucose levels, and support in losing weight. Cinnamon is also a popular ingredient in natural skin treatments. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties present in this compound help in the process.
Benefits of Ceylon Cinnamon for Skin
Cinnamon is used in most skincare products as it contains many chemical properties that can benefit the skin. Especially since cinnamon is a natural ingredient, most people use it in skincare.
- Cinnamon contains a lot of antibacterial and antioxidant properties that can fight harmful microorganisms. It also regulates oil production on the face and prevents increasing any further.
- Cinnamon adds moisture to the face and gives a fresher appearance. This happens because cinnamon increases the blood flow to the surface of the skin through its ability of vasodilation.
- The antioxidants present in cinnamon remove the free radicals present in the skin that causes skin damage. So, cinnamon can protect the skin from long-term damage and retain its glow.
- Cinnamon is a natural exfoliant that can remove dead skin cells. This prevents dryness and makes the skin softer.
- Since cinnamon has the ability to remove impurities from the skin, it works as a natural scrub. This process becomes more effective due to the antifungal properties of this spice.
- The skin loses elasticity with age due to the degradation of collagen. Cinnamon boosts collagen production through cinnamaldehyde, a major component present in it. Hence, cinnamon works as an anti-aging compound that in preventing premature aging.
- It can bring a soothing effect to the skin by removing all discoloration and redness. As the skin remains healthy, it will improve the skin tone or complexion.
- Due to vasodilation, cinnamon increases the blood supply in the skin. This gives the skin a desirably healthy, fuller look.
- Removing scars and blemishes from the skin is not an easy task. But cinnamon is the best solution as it gives you clear skin.
- Cinnamon provides relief from eczema, an irritating skin condition that leaves light-colored patches. Its anti-inflammatory effects help in the process to overcome this discoloration.
Does Cinnamon Whiten Skin?
Cinnamon is popular as a natural agent that whitens skin. It eliminates blemishes, acne scars, and redness on the skin. Cinnamon can increase the blood supply on the skin surface which promotes complexion. The antioxidants present in cinnamon protect the skin against potential damage by nourishing it. Hence, it makes the skin clear and more radiant by giving it a youthful look.
How to Use Ceylon Cinnamon for Skin?
Rather than being a simple kitchen spice, cinnamon offers a wide range of health benefits when used correctly. Here are some ways in which you can use cinnamon to get brighter skin. But before you start, you should check that cinnamon does not irritate your skin. Make a paste of cinnamon by adding a little amount of water. Then apply it on the back of your hand and allow it to sit for 10 – 15 minutes. You might feel a sight tingle, but it is not a problem unless you experience burning and redness of the skin. If so, you cannot use cinnamon as a skin treatment.
Cinnamon and Honey Mask
Cinnamon and honey are a well-known combination for skin lightening. This supports the enhanced blood flow of the skin and is the best solution to prevent acne. Mix ground cinnamon with honey in a ratio of 1:3. Apply this paste on the skin and gently massage. Leave it on for about 15 minutes before rinsing it away.
You can also use this combination to cure light-colored patches caused by eczema. Mix a teaspoon of cinnamon with an equal portion of honey. Apply it on the affected areas and leave it for some time.
Cinnamon Essential Oils
Cinnamon oil improves blood circulation in the skin while preserving moisture. Prepare a mask by mixing some cinnamon essential oil and a few tablespoons of petroleum jelly or olive oil. This is even a good remedy for dry and chapped lips.
Cinnamon Scrub
Cinnamon helps remove dead skin cells and smoothen the skin. Prepare your own scrub by mixing some Ceylon cinnamon powder with salt, olive oil, almond oil, and honey. Use this to clean your skin when washing your face. You will see the difference as your skin glows in just a few weeks.
Cinnamon, Lemon, and Yoghurt Mask
Prepare a paste by mixing ground cinnamon, yogurt, lemon juice, and a banana. Apply this mask to the face and leave it on for about 15 minutes. Then wash it away with lukewarm water. This treatment with Ceylon cinnamon for skin whitening brings results very soon.
Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Honey
Both cinnamon and nutmeg are popular spices that can eliminate bacteria. Prepare this mask by mixing ½ teaspoon of cinnamon with ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg and 1 tablespoon of raw honey. This compound smells more like biscuit dough and will preserve moisture on the skin. Leave it on your face for about 15 minutes before washing it off.
Cinnamon and Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a popular plant that has a cooling and healing effect on the skin. It is mostly used to relieve burns and skin irritations. It is better if you can get pure gel straight from the plant since aloe vera juice is too runny and difficult to be used in making a paste.
Prepare your own mask by mixing a tablespoon of aloe vera gel and a teaspoon of cinnamon. This paste may not stick well to the face as a mask. So, you can use it to massage the skin for a few minutes in a circular motion. Then try to paste a thin layer on the face for additional 5 – 10 minutes and rinse it off.
Yogurt, Turmeric, and Cinnamon
Turmeric is a popular ingredient that instantly glows the skin. Prepare a paste by mixing 3 tablespoons of yogurt, ¾ teaspoon of ground turmeric, and a teaspoon of cinnamon. Masks that use turmeric should have double cleaning; before and after applying the mask. Yogurt used in this compound reduces the tint which turmeric leaves on the skin.
What is the Right Type of Cinnamon for Skin?
There are two main types, namely Ceylon cinnamon and cassia cinnamon. Ceylon cinnamon is native to Sri Lanka and cannot be obtained from anywhere else. Cassia cinnamon varieties come from various countries in Asia. The main difference between these two types in terms of the chemical composition is the amount of coumarin present in each. Cassia contains a higher amount of coumarin which can be toxic when consumed in large amounts. So, cassia is not the better option even for skin treatment.
Ceylon cinnamon is much sweeter and milder, with a lot of health benefits. It doesn’t have any known negative effects on the body. The only downside is that Ceylon cinnamon is quite more expensive than other varieties. But it is definitely worth the cost and can be used as a nutrient in the food and to deal with skin problems. So, Ceylon cinnamon powder is the right type of cinnamon for the skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Should I Leave Honey and Cinnamon on My Face?
Cinnamon and honey are both rich in antioxidants that fight off acne. The general time to keep on a honey and cinnamon mask on your face is around 15 – 20 minutes. People with sensitive skin could experience slight irritation. If so, apply this mask only once a week to recover from pimples and acne.
Does Cinnamon Burn Skin?
Cinnamon doesn’t usually burn the skin unless you are hypersensitive to it. This is why you should do a patch test before applying a cinnamon mask. Apply a small amount of cinnamon mask mixture behind your ear and let it rest for about 10 minutes. If you feel any burning, irritation, or skin reddening, you should not continue to use the mask.
How to Use Cinnamon as an Anti-aging Solution?
Mix ½ teaspoon of cinnamon powder and 2 tablespoons of extra virgin oil. Apply this mixture to the face and neck and leave it on for about 7 – 8 minutes. Massage the paste gently onto your face so that the oil penetrates the skin. Wipe the face with a damp cloth to remove this paste. Use this daily to prevent premature aging signs on the face and neck.
Can Cinnamon Damage Your Skin?
Cinnamon has various antimicrobial benefits that can heal wounds. Although you may not be allergic to cinnamon as a spice, it can still cause irritation when applied on the skin. So, test it on your skin before using it as a mask or scrub on the face.
How Do You Make a Cinnamon Face Scrub?
Add 1 ½ cups of brown sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of ground cinnamon and stir them well. Then mix it with 1 tablespoon of melted coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of unscented liquid soap. Stir the mixture until it dissolves smoothly without any lumps. Put this in a suitable container and seal it well so that you can use this face scrub for up to 2 months.
Conclusion
Cinnamon offers plenty of benefits for the skin. Hence, it is a perfect homemade remedy to overcome dry and dull skin. Remove the blemishes and lighten the complexion easily with any of these masks with cinnamon for skin pigmentation. Moreover, you can also improve your health by drinking Ceylon cinnamon water.